Larry French

Larry French of Fayetteville, Ark., passed away Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013, at the Willard Walker Hospice House in Fayetteville at the age of 72. He was born on Feb. 17, 1941, in Rector, Ark., to the late Hubert and Cora (Jones) French. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by two brothers, George and Joe French. He is survived by his wife, Ellen Ann (Green) French of the home; and two children, son, Tim French of Fayetteville, and daughter, Leigh Ann Pleimann and her husband, Jason Pleimann, of Fayetteville; six grandsons, Jacob Womack, Garrett Womack, Luke Womack, Kyle French, Miller Pleimann and Mason Pleimann. Larry was a longtime resident of Rector, Ark., before retiring with Ann to Fayetteville to be nearer to his family. He was a firm believer in quality education and leading by example he obtained a master's degree from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Ark. He spent most of his career as an educator and administrator in both Arkansas and Missouri. Larry was a member of the First Baptist Church of Fayetteville, as well as a longtime member of Lion's Club International. Some of his passions included Arkansas Razorback sports, hunting, fishing and golf. Though none of these were as gratifying as attending his grandson's activities, which brought him great joy. Visitation will be held Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013, at 6 p.m. at Irby Funeral Home in Rector. Services will be at the First United Methodist Church in Rector on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013, at 2 p.m., officiated by Brother Mace Straubel. Burial will follow at the Woodland Heights Cemetery in Rector. Active pallbearers are Danny Ford, Todd Ford, Danny Holifield, Rob Louder, Kelly Scobey and Wes Stallcup. The family takes great comfort in the confidence he is safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and through Him have the opportunity to once again be reunited. You may sign the online condolence book at www.irbyfuneralhome.com.